Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism is opening up new horizons for the nation's tourism industry with a groundbreaking initiative. Tourist visas will now be granted electronically to citizens of eight additional countries, in a bid to boost Saudi tourism and align with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Expanded E-Visa Accessibility:
Citizens of Azerbaijan, Albania, Uzbekistan, South Africa, Georgia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Maldives can now embark on their Saudi Arabian adventure by applying for tourist visas electronically. Alternatively, they can obtain visas upon arrival at KSA international ports.
A Crucial Step for Tourism and Economy:
This strategic move falls in line with Saudi Vision 2030, a transformative plan that aims to elevate the tourism sector's contribution to GDP from 3% to over 10%. It also seeks to create a million additional job opportunities, with a strong preference for Saudi citizens, and attract a staggering 100 million tourists by the year 2030.
Exploring the Kingdom and Performing Umrah:
The newly introduced tourist visa offers visitors the chance to explore various captivating regions of the Kingdom. Moreover, it allows individuals to undertake the spiritual journey of Umrah, further enriching their travel experience.
Adherence to Regulations:
Tourists availing themselves of the e-visa must adhere to all applicable rules and instructions during their stay in the Kingdom. This includes carrying identification documents at all times. However, it's important to note that the tourist visa does not grant access to Hajj or Umrah during the Hajj season.
A Glance Back and Ahead:
This latest expansion is a continuation of Saudi Arabia's efforts to foster international connections and promote economic diversification. The Ministry had previously launched the tourist visa program in September 2019, initially targeting 49 countries, a number that later expanded to 57. In a bid to engage the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) community, the Ministry opened up the program to all GCC residents, irrespective of vocation, in March.
The Future of Saudi Tourism:
This development is just the beginning, as the Ministry has ambitious plans to further broaden the tourist e-visa system to include more countries and regions. This progressive approach aligns with the Kingdom's continuous investment in enhancing tourism infrastructure and offering captivating experiences.
